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Delhi High Court directs Google, Apple to curb apps promoting obscene content
On May 13, 2026, the Delhi High Court directed Google and Apple to take action against apps disseminating obscene content on Play Store and App Store, and to ensure compliance with IT Rules 2021. The bench urged due diligence at both upload and post-flag stages and ordered an action-taken report by the next date. The petition by Rubika Thapa alleging inaction was heard, with the next hearing set for July 17, 2026.
Why It Matters
The ruling underscores the responsibility of major intermediaries to curb harmful content under IT Rules 2021 and may influence how app stores moderate content and respond to complaints.
Timeline
2 Events
Next hearing on Rubika Thapa petition
July 17, 2026
The petition filed by Rubika Thapa alleging inaction by Google and Apple in curbing obscene and pornographic apps will be next heard on July 17, 2026.
Delhi HC orders action against apps promoting obscene content
May 13, 2026
A bench of Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia of the Delhi High Court directed Google and Apple to take action against mobile applications available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store that disseminate obscene and pornographic content. The court asserted that intermediaries must act not only after complaints but also at the stage of permitting uploads, and must ensure compliance with IT Rules 2021. It also directed that an action-taken report under the order be filed by the next date. A notice was issued on Rubika Thapa’s petition alleging inaction by Google and Apple and seeking removal of such apps; the petition also highlights concerns about ownership, registered office details, and server locations in foreign jurisdictions.